Look To The Stars News: Russell Simmons

Rev Run Wants Your Shoe Designs

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:00:00 -0000

Run DMC co-founder Joseph Simmons – AKA Rev Run – recently hosted a charity event in New York for Soles4Souls.

The 44-year-old younger brother of Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons has partnered his shoe company, Run Athletics, with the Souls4Souls charity and encouraged guests at the event to donate shoes to send to Darfur. He also used the occasion to launch a new shoe design contest to raise money for the cause.

The winning design in the contest – which can be accessed at www.runathletics.com/soles4souls – will be manufactured and showcased at a special ceremony on December 17. The winners of the competition – and the top shoe donators at Simmons’ events – will receive a pair of limited edition Run Athletics sneakers.

Michael Phelps To Play In Charity Poker Tournament

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Michael Phelps might be excellent in the pool, but he will have another sort of challenge when he competes in the Sunflower Children 2nd annual Texas Hold’em Charity Benefit on November 21.

Sunflower Children is a humanitarian aid organization that provides survival and development care for the forgotten children of the world. Their efforts encompass medical, nutritional, psychological, educational, adoption and other humanitarian support that nurtures survival, health, growth and hope for orphaned, disabled, abandoned, refugee and impoverished children.

Joining Phelps at the event – which boasts a host committee that includes Helena Houdova, Roberta Armani, Russell Simmons and Lane Carlson – will be Laura Bell Bundy, Poker Pro Lee Childs, and actors Michael Kelly (Changeling), Ben Bailey (Cash Cab), Ana Ortiz (Ugly Betty), Mark Indelicato (Ugly Betty), Malinda Williams (First Sunday), and David Zayas (Dexter).

Tickets to the event – which will be held at Gotham Hall in New York – are available from the Sunflower Children website.

Simmons Commits Money To Charity

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons has revealed that he would rather give his fortune to people in need than spend it on himself.

The 51-year-old made the announcement at the annual BET awards held in Atlanta on Saturday.

“I’m not going to cut down on [my charities] so I can have another ride on a private plane,” said the producer, who took home the I Am Hip Hop icon award at the ceremony. “I want to make sure everyone keeps getting fed.”

Simmons is Co-Chairman of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network – which harnesses the cultural relevance of Hip-Hop music to serve as a catalyst for education advocacy – and also co-founded the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation with his brothers, Danny and Joseph Simmons. In 2007 he founded the Diamond Empowerment Fund to raise money to support education initiatives to help people in countries where diamonds are a natural resource.

“I want to contribute more to earth than I take away from it,” Simmons said.

Hip Hop Stars To Empower Young People

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Hip Hop fans take note: the Atlanta Hip Hop Summit on Financial Empowerment takes place on October 17.

Founded in 2001, the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN) is dedicated to harnessing the cultural relevance of Hip-Hop music to serve as a catalyst for education advocacy and other societal concerns fundamental to the empowerment of youth. The Summit will feature appearances from HSAN chairman Russell Simmons, as well as Ludacris and a host movers and shakers from the world of Hip Hop.

Leaders from the field will gather to talk about a range of issues facing young people today, including money management and wealth building, maintaining good credit, credit card and debt management, home ownership, and vehicle financing.

The event follows the VH1 Hip Hop Honors that were held on October 1. As part of that event – which celebrated Hip Hop luminaries who broke new ground and pioneered the genre of Hip Hop into a true cultural phenomenon – the Lisa Lopes Foundation announced a special initiative to raise funds for their organization: VH1 has released the “Last Days of Left Eye” for purchase, and a portion of the proceeds from each dvd will go towards the efforts of the Foundation.

The Lisa Lopes Foundation (LLF) was developed in 2003 by Lisa’s mother, Wanda Lopes-Colemon, brother Ronald Lopes and family friend Anashay Murphy. The Foundation was inspired by Lisa’s dream of building a children’s home on some land she purchased in Honduras. Shortly after revealing her plans to her family, Lisa – known as “Left Eye” and a member of girl group TLC – was killed in a car accident in Honduras. The family established the Lisa Lopes Foundation to bring her dream to fruition. Four years later they opened Lisa’s Hogar De Amor (Home of Love), a 10,000 sq. ft. orphanage. The LLF also provides teen programs in Georgia.

More information about the Atlanta Hip Hop Summit on Financial Empowerment can be found at the event’s website.

Gisele Bundchen Auctions Diamonds For Empowerment Fund

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Supermodel Gisele Bundchen is selling off some of her best jewelry for charity.

The 28-year-old Brazilian model – listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s richest supermodel – has announced she will be selling a personal collection of dazzling bling in a special auction at Christie’s New York next month.

The collection features a 6-carat diamond ring worth $120,000 – $150,000, and a 3.35-carat Sabbadini diamond ring worth $15,000 – $20,000. A percentage of the proceeds from the auction will go to Russell Simmons’ Diamond Empowerment Fund, whose mission is to raise money to support education initiatives in countries where diamonds are a natural resource.

Bundchen is no stranger to philanthropic acts – she donates regularly to Brazilian charities that protect the Amazon rainforest, such as Nascentes do Brasil, ISA, Y Ikatu Xingu, and De Olho nos Mananciais. She is also the face of Bono’s American Express (RED) card – which raises money for Africa’s HIV/AIDS victims – and is the spokesperson for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer.

The auction takes place on October 15, and the lots can be viewed on Christie’s website.

Hip Hop Royalty Auction “Crown Jewels” for Charity

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Jennifer Beckmann

On October 1, an unprecedented collection of jewelry from hip hop superstars will be auctioned by Phillips de Pury & Co., with a portion of proceeds benefitting Russell Simmons’ Rush Community Affairs.

The auction features such iconic pieces as Missy Elliot’s diamond, black diamond and gold turntable ring; Sean “Diddy” Combs’ diamond and platinum bracelet; and Lil’ Jon’s Guinness World Record-holding “Crunk Ain’t Dead” pendant, which weighs almost 12 pounds.

Of the 50 pieces included in the auction, a representative from the auction house says, “The artists are very tied into these pieces emotionally. That they consigned them over is a big statement.”

Rush Community Affairs is a coalition of Russell Simmons’ non-profit organizations and includes the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, the Hip Hop Summit Action Network and the Diamond Empowerment Fund.

For more information on the auction, click here

Stars Line Up For Women's Conference

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

California First Lady Maria Shriver has announced the lineup of celebrity speakers confirmed for this year’s annual Women’s Conference in Long Beach.

The event – to be held on October 21 and 22 at the Long Beach Convention Center – sold out in record time, and it is no surprise considering the plethora of newsmakers and world opinion leaders that will appear at the conference to empower and motivate women to pursue a lifelong journey of self discovery. Lance Armstrong, Bono, Warren Buffett, Sally Field, Michael J. Fox, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, Jenny McCarthy, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Russell Simmons are just some of the 50 speakers set to take the stage, and there will also be a special performance by Bonnie Raitt.

“I am honored to again be hosting what has become the nation’s premier forum for women, where the world’s greatest hearts and minds convene every year to empower women to find a common purpose, be united by a shared conversation, and see themselves as a collective WE,” said Shriver. “This year, I am urging women to take time to explore their deepest hopes and aspirations, and I hope they leave the conference with a better sense of just who they want to be—and the knowledge of how to get there.”

The first Women’s Conference – formerly known as the California Governor and First Lady’s Conference on Women – was held over twenty years ago, but it has been under the leadership of First Lady Shriver and Governor Schwarzenegger that the event has become the premier event in empowering and inspiring women.

This year’s conference will include a new event – the Night at The Village – which will consist of exhibitor booths, stage presentations, book signings, shopping, food, musical entertainment, and a conversation with Rachael Ray.

“We envision ‘Night at The Village’ as the place for celebrating women, launching products for women, and having fun,” said Shriver. “The Village is our answer to a call from women for more time to just be—whether it is to mingle casually, network for work, or shop around for items and experiences that will enrich their mind, body and soul. All of this can now happen only at The Village.”

More information about the conference can be found at First Lady Shriver’s official website.

Bid For Yoga With Russell Simmons

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

One lucky bidder will have the chance to stretch their limbs with Russell Simmons at a private yoga lesson in a new charity auction the hip hop mogul has launched on eBay.

The 50-year-old has launched the auction to raise money for the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, a charity he established to provide arts and education programming to New York City youth. Over 75 items have been donated to the auction by a variety of celebrities, all of whom want to reach out to urban youth and offer personal testimony to the transformative power of creative expression.

As well as the yoga opportunity, items up for auction include a one week internship with Simmons at his executive office, a personalized George Clooney cell phone, the chance to meet Alicia Keys, Snoop Dogg, and Dionne Warwick, the opportunity to attend a baseball game with Petra Nemcova, and a personal rendition of Happy Birthday from John Legend.

The auction runs until July 24, and can be accessed through Charity Buzz.

Stars Design Watches For Poverty Organization

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:34:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Singer Mary J. Blige is one of three celebrities to design watches to raise money for Chrysalis.

The 37-year-old R&B artist has joined with Eric Dane and Russell Simmons to design limited edition Ernst Benz Chronoscope watches to support the work of the non-profit organization devoted to assisting individuals escape homelessness and poverty. The timepieces are part of a collection entitled “Time for Change”.

“I knew that I wanted to support Chrysalis after learning of the organization, but after attending this year’s Butterfly Ball, I am even more dedicated to supporting this project,” said Leonid Khankin, Managing Director and Designer for Ernst Benz. “This limited edition watch collection is just one step towards raising funds and awareness for an organization doing incredible work to change lives and give people back their dignity.”

Only 24 numbered watches will be made of each design, and will be available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue with 50% of the sale from each watch going to Chrysalis. In addition, one watch from each series will be auctioned online, with 100% of these proceeds going to the organization.

Robin Hood Gets Merry For Charity!

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:32:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The stars came out for the Robin Hood Foundation’s annual fundraising gala last week, in an evening that shone, sparkled, and made the charity millions of dollars.

About 4,000 people gathered at the event held at the Javits Center in New York, including rapper Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Tom Brokaw, Miramax boss Harvey Weinstein, and American Idol winner David Cook. The proceeds from the event, which included an auction, will go to more than 240 poverty-fighting programs in the city, including Abraham House in the South Bronx, which offers social services to relatives of prison inmates; the Children’s Defense Fund, which seeks better access to health care for poor children, and Broadway Housing Communities, which provides shelter for the homeless or the mentally ill.

The auction was co-hosted by Conan O’Brien, and the evening also featured performances by Shakira, Sheryl Crow, and John Legend.

“Every single penny raised tonight goes to help people claw their way out of poverty and build better lives for themselves and their families,” said David Saltzman, Robin Hood’s executive director. “Despite what’s going on in the economy, people who are in a position to help others step up, and during tough times they step up even more.”

Stars Flock To Farm Sanctuary Gala

Wed, 21 May 2008 10:32:57 -0000

Written by Parrish

What could be better than a fancy evening in downtown Manhattan celebrating a brilliant foundation with some of today’s hottest celebrities? The answer: absolutely nothing!

This past Saturday I had the honor of attending Farm Sanctuary’s annual gala. Farm Sanctuary was started in 1986 and is now considered to be the nation’s leading farm animal protection organization. Each year the gala helps raise funds for their noble work and honor those who make a difference.

The evening was pure elegance with beautifully decorated tables, a classy silent auction area and, of course, the second floor VIP loft where all the famous faces mingled. Within minutes upstairs I was surrounded by a goggle of celebrities all sharing one thing – a love for Farm Sanctuary. Swoosie Kurtz told me: “I’m just so blown away by what they do. They are so specific in what they do and their goals and they really get thing done.”

Emily Deschanel, a vegan of 16 years, said that she “loves that Farm Sanctuary works from so many different angles” and “that they do so much like passing laws for the farm animals and educating the public.”

As the evening progressed I hobnobbed with stars like Rory Freedman, Dennis Kucinich, Kevin Nealon, Victoria Moran, Ally Sheedy, Loretta Swit, Russell Simmons and Farm Sanctuary president and co-founder Gene Baur.

The ceremony itself was hosted by Heather Mills, emceed by Melissa Rivers and Susie Essman led the live auction. As the evening closed we were treated to a twilight reception with desserts by Vegan Treats and a musical performance by Grammy Award winner Shawn Colvin.

All and all it was a glorious example of what people can do with a compassionate heart, a willing spirit and a generous pocket. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.FarmSanctuary.org.

Parrish is a regular contributor to Ecorazzi, the web’s leading green-gossip site.

(Photo copyright Andrew Ford)

Magic Johnson Receives 3rd Annual USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award

Thu, 08 May 2008 09:30:43 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

NBA Legend, entrepreneur and philanthropist Earvin “Magic” Johnson received the 3rd annual USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award presented by USA TODAY President and Publisher Craig A. Moon. A long-time humanitarian and social advocate, Johnson was honored for his work in entertainment, underserved communities and the founding of the Magic Johnson Foundation.

“He’s the perfect Hollywood Hero,” said USA TODAY president and publisher Craig Moon, “the award is about someone who gives more than just their name or money. Magic is a man who gives his time.”

The caliber of celebrities who came out to honor Magic Johnson for his outstanding work in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention in minority communities was nothing short of spectacular. Guests including Chaka Khan, Samuel L. Jackson, Regina King, Russell Simmons and others, offered their words of praise to Magic Johnson, and by the end of the night there was barely a dry eye in the house.

“I want to thank you for loving mankind, ” said Chaka Kahn during her speech.

“He showed me that you can live and be vital and change from one thing to another,” said Samuel L Jackson, “And that affects us and a lot of other people.”

“Thank you very much for asking me to be here, that in itself is an honor,” said Regina King, who spoke openly about her adoration of Magic and his wife Cookie. “Every time I see [Cookie] she has something incredible to say and represents us women so well.” She said, “You remind us that we can’t back off. As you are nurturing your souls, and fortifying your character, it’s about you inspiring us to be better, to want to be better, and I thank you so much for being you, I appreciate you.”

Founder of Def Jam records, Russell Simmons gave a heartfelt speech which highlighted Magic’s courage, “Its important to acknowledge the courage, to remind people to be courageous,” said Simmons, “The inspiration and knowledge you give goes way beyond what people see. You are truly an inspirational image in this country and the world.”

Magic’s wife Cookie explained her feelings about when Magic was ready to announce that he was HIV-positive, “I was absolutely against it,” she said. “At that time, HIV was a huge stigma. … But he said, ‘I have to do this because it’s the only way I can help save lives.’ He risked his own reputation, and that’s what makes him my hero.”

Words such as courage, inspiration, love, admiration, respect, thank-you, and perseverance were prevalent in all speeches. And when Magic hugged each guest speaker after his or her words, he was quick to share his thoughts on what motives him, “My kids hug me, and that’s the only congratulations you want.”

Chanté Moore and her nine-piece band, including Kenny Lattimore, performed at the gala, which was held at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Other guests included: LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Paul Sorvino, Mo’Nique, Phil Jackson (LA Lakers Coach), Jeanie Buss (LA Lakers Exec), Kurt Rambis, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Susan DeLaurentis (Producer), Miguel A. Nunez (Kickin’ It Old School), William Abadie (Cashmere Mafia), Jimmy Jean-Louis (Heroes), Steven Sawalich (Director), Telma Hopkins (Love Guru), Judge Joe Brown, and the recipient of the first USA Hollywood Hero Award, Zina Bethune.

The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award is presented annually to an entertainment industry humanitarian who has made remarkable contributions of time and energies with a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life for others. The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award recipient is unique in that his or her efforts extend far beyond a charitable contribution or simply lending one’s celebrity to enhance a cause or concern.

The Magic Johnson Foundation, founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson in 1991, works to develop programs and support community-based organizations that address the educational, health and social needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities. Over the past few years, the Magic Johnson Foundation has awarded more than $1.1 million to community-based organizations that focus on HIV/AIDS education and prevention, supported more than 800 minority high school students with college scholarships (through the Taylor Michaels Scholarship Program), opened 20 Magic Johnson Community Empowerment Centers located in underserved communities across the country, and provided a range of community-based initiatives including an annual Children’s Mardi Gras and holiday toy drive.

(Photos copyright Alberto Rodriguez)

Celebrities Unite For Earth Day

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:32:47 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Tomorrow, April 22, will see one of the largest global events uniting the planet against climate change to be held this year. Millions of evironmentally-minded people around the planet will hold events to celebrate the 38th annual Earth Day, a massive campaign focussing on global warming and raising awareness for a cleaner environment.

First held in 1970, and established by US Senator Gaylord Nelson, the event marks the anniversary of the modern environmental movement. All over the world, the day will see concerned citizens of the planet out in force, calling for action against global warming and a healthy, sustainable environment. Breakfasts, Scuba diving contests, celebrations, parties, wine and food festivals, marathons, and concerts are just some of the thousands of events that have been planned around the globe by the Earth Day Network, the driving-force behind the event.

One of the major campaigns being promoted in the US as part of Earth Day 2008 is the Call For Climate initiative, which encourages people to ring Congress and demand climate change action to be taken.

“It doesn’t take a doctor on Scrubs to tell you our climate is changing,” said Zach Braff, who has joined Kevin Bacon and Chevy Chase in recording messages encouraging people to support the campaign. “Earth Day Network wants you to call Congress on Earth Day, April 22, and ask them to take tough and fair action on climate change. Put this number in your phone now – 202 224 3121. That’s Congress. Ask your representative or senator to bring us a healthier climate.”

Washington DC has already kicked off its Earth Day celebrations with a huge concert held on Sunday, featuring performances by Jordin Sparks, The Roots, O.A.R. and more. Speakers at the event included Russell Simmons, Edward Norton, and Tom Friedman.

Also as part of Earth Day, the Waterkeeper Alliance is running a very special auction featuring celebrity experiences, exciting autographed items, and fabulous vacations. Be sure to visit the Charity Buzz website to bid on items such as a day on the set of Damages with Glenn Close, signed X-Files memorabilia from David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, a copy of The Comeback DVD signed by Lisa Kudrow, tickets to see Jack Johnson in Ohio, VIP tickets to see The Daily Show, The Colbert Report, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and Dr Phil, as well as the opportunity to have lunch with Alicia Silverstone and MacGyver himself, Richard Dean Anderson. The auction runs until April 29.

For more information on Earth Day – and to find events in your area – visit the official Earth Day website.

John Legend Buys Himself At Charity Auction

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:30:11 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation held its first Miami Gala on Saturday night, with a huge celebrity turnout to celebrate the occasion.

The Art For Life event was held at Miami Beach and honored John Legend, Wyclef Jean, and Suze Orman for their efforts to help improve the lives of others. Chaired by Sean ‘P.Diddy’ Combs and hosted by actress Nia Long, the event was co-organized by a legion of well-known names, including Dwayne Johnson, Petra Nemcova, and Rush founder Russell Simmons.

The main attraction of the evening was a massive celebrity auction, which featured a large selection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences and items. However, the auction took on a slightly skewed course when John Legend spent $19,000 on the very item he donated – a Happy Birthday serenade over the phone from… well, from John Legend! Quite how he is going to ring himself up and sing is anyone’s guess.

Legend also pledged a further $10,000 to the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, which was followed by $10,000 from Sean Combs and another $10,000 from former NBA player Larry Johnson. And although they couldn’t attend, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie pledged $5,000 in honor of Wyclef Jean.

The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation was established in 1995 by brothers Russell, Danny, and Joseph Simmons to provide funding for non-profit organizations that give disadvantaged urban youth exposure and access to the arts. Although based in New York, a large percentage of the proceeds from Saturday’s gala will go directly to programs in Miami, including One Art, the Thomas Armour Youth Ballet, and the Theatre Institute of South Florida.

This is the third year the event has been held in South Florida – in previous years it was held at Palm Beach – and last year’s event raised over $2 million.

Elton's Oscar Party Raises $5.1m

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 19:50:42 -0000

Written by Steve Purcell

Sunday night saw the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s 16th annual Academy Awards viewing party, which this year raised $5.1 million thanks to its spectacular guest list.

The Pacific Design Center venue saw even more of Hollywood’s glitterati than anticipated, boasting the attendance of “Best Actress” award winner Marion Cotillard and “Best Supporting Actor” nominee Tom Wilkinson. Further top names present included Amy Adams, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi, Sean Penn, Patricia Clarkson, Calista Flockhart and Harrison Ford, Josh Groban, Faye Dunaway, Sean Combs, Seal and Heidi Klum, Prince, Kate Beckinsale, Billy Joel, Courtney Love, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Petra Nemcova, Jeremy Piven, Roberto Cavalli, Minnie Driver, Simon Cowell and Herbie Hancock.

The gala was co-hosted by Elton’s partner David Furnish, and included dinner, a musical performance by Elton himself and a live auction.

Sharon Stone acted as auctioneer, and Elton offered to remove his trousers if it would raise more money. Stone added that she wouldn’t follow suit.

Yet more stars seen at the event included Natasha Henstridge, Larry King, Eric McCormack, Jason Lewis, Jonny Lee Miller, Brett Ratner, Jason Reitman, Rupert Murdoch, Jennifer Coolidge, Russell Simmons, Cheryl Tiegs, John Waters and Ziyi Zhang.

Since its inception in 1992, Elton’s foundation has raised more than $125 million to support HIV/AIDS prevention and service programs in 55 countries.

Bono's Charity Auction Raises $42.6m for (RED)

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 12:11:22 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Sotheby’s was seeing red last week as Bono and artist Damien Hirst organized a Valentine’s Day auction of more than 60 works of art to raise funds for Bono’s (RED) charity. And by by the end of the night, the U2 frontman had rallied deep-pocketed bidders to make the AIDS charity auction a raging success to the tune of $42.6 million.

“It is a historic night for artists” said Bono, “An extraordinary night in New York City. I am very moved.”

The U2 frontman was flanked by celebrity pals as he led the guests in a sing-along of the Beatles’ ‘All You Need Is Love’. “I see myself as a servant for Africa,” Bono said, “Tonight is about the awareness of AIDS and the medical treatment that can strongly aid in the demise of this disease.”

Throngs of celebrity bidders were on hand to snatch up items such as a steel and glass cabinet by Hirst called ‘Where There’s a Will There’s a Way,’ which fetched $7.15M. The cabinet was filled with drugs to treat HIV.

“I have watched people dying for lack of these pills,” Bono said after the sale. “I actually can’t quantify how many people that will keep alive. It’s not just the money we made tonight, it’s the excitement around the issue.”

Model Christy Turlington bought Francesco Clemente’s ‘Red Flower on Scorched Earth’ for $155,000, even though it was valued at $70,000.

“When I first saw the catalog, I loved this piece the most,’’ Turlington said after the sale. “It was completely impulsive.’‘

Bono seems to inspire the best of people, so it’s no surprise that most auction items were sold for well above their estimated value.

“Tonight we got serious about love, and not just the love of art, but the love of our brothers and sisters suffering from Aids in the poorest places on the planet,” he said.

A work by London street artist Banksy sold for $1.7M, though it had been valued at no more than $350,000; Murakami’s ‘Red Flower Ball’ was estimated at $700,000, but sold for $1.5M; Richard Prince’s ‘Untitled’ sold for $1.6 million even though the top estimate was $900,000; and Andreas Gursky’s ‘Pyongyang IV’ was valued at $300,000, but adding Bono into the mix led to a final bid of $1.4M.

“I’m never going to be cynical ever again for a while,” Bono said. “We’ve helped change the world a little bit.”

Among those on hand to support the cause were NBC news anchor Brian Williams, R.E.M. front man Michael Stipe, Queen Noor of Jordan, actor Dennis Hopper, tennis star John McEnroe, supermodel Helena Christensen, actor Ed Burns and hip-hop entrepreneur Russell Simmons.

Proceeds from the sale, which was organized at no cost by Bono’s charity organization (RED), will go directly to the United Nations Foundation to support HIV/AIDS relief programs run by The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

Celebrities Kept Busy With Charity Initiatives

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:34:57 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Philanthropic celebrities have been more than busy lately, helping charities through a series of unique and exciting initiatives and events.

Although the current Hollywood writers’ strike is keeping the 2008 Academy Awards up in the air, model Heidi Klum has announced she will press ahead with her plans to donate the red dress she intends to wear at the Oscar ceremony to charity.

The donation is part of the Red Dress Program, an initiative between Diet Coke and the National Institutes of Health’s The Heart Truth to raise awareness of heart disease in women.

“Heidi Klum’s participation helps make this program even bigger, and gives consumers a great way to become involved and learn more about a crucial women’s health issue,” said Caren Pasquale Seckler, Group Director for Coca-Cola North America. “Through the Diet Coke Red Dress Program, we’re asking consumers to help us support women’s heart health and giving them the chance to win a one-of-a-kind red dress worn to the Oscars by Heidi Klum.”

The dress will be made available as part of a contest at www.mycokerewards.com, and for every sweepstakes entry, Diet Coke will donate $1 (up to a total of $250,000) in support of women’s heart health research and awareness.

Klum will also hit the catwalk on February 1 during The Red Dress Collection Fashion Show at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. The show will feature a range of dresses created by top fashion designers to show their support of the Heart Truth campaign.

Comedian Stephen Colbert has also recently made a donation to charity, with $171,525 being gifted to the Yellow Ribbon Fund, a charity that assists injured service members and their families.

The mock talk show host raised the money through the sale of his “WristStrong” bracelets, which were made available as part of his “Wrist Awareness” campaign started when he broke his wrist last June.

The tongue-in-cheek campaign saw celebrities such as Katie Couric, Brian Williams, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg wearing the bracelets. It followed the sale of the cast from Colbert’s broken wrist, which raised $17,000 for the Yellow Ribbon Fund.

Another well-known figure to make a donation to charity lately was Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons, who gifted $300,000 to the Diamond Empowerment Fund last week.

Simmons established the Fund in 2007 to provide resources for education programs designed to motivate Africans in countries where diamonds are mined. The donation comes from money raised from the Simmons Jewelry Green Initiative, a collection of bracelets made from green malachite and rough diamonds. Beyoncé Knowles, Vanessa Hudgens, and Mischa Barton are all reported to be owners of the bracelets.

In a completely different sort of initiative, singer KT Tunstall and Blur bassist Alex James are among celebrities teaming up to write an upcoming children’s book for charity.

The musicians will join a host of stars recruited by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children for the initiative. Each celebrity will write ten lines of the story before passing it on to the next person to continue.

The final product will be revealed in a one-off reading session before being auctioned off later in the year.

And finally, British television personality Jonathan Ross has challenged comedian Jimmy Carr to a celebrity doubles tennis match that will see the entertainers paired up with 1997 US Open finalist Greg Rusedski and 1987 Wimbledon winner Pat Cash.

The match – which will take place at London’s Albert Hall on March 14 – is part of Sport Relief 2008, a fundraising initiative from Comic Relief. Money raised will go towards helping vulnerable people living in the UK and the world’s poorest countries.

Celebrity Auctions For Christmas

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 10:34:25 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

As the clock counts down to Christmas, celebrities have been keeping busy and warm by signing as many different items as humanly possible and donating them to a plethora of auctions. The holiday season may be at fever pitch now, but there is certainly a wide range of gift ideas to ease the stress of last minute shopping.

The VH1 Holiday Auction is currently being held at www.vh1auctions.com, and includes a long list of memorabilia from the music industry. All proceeds from the auction will go to the VH1 Save The Music Foundation, an initiative dedicated to restoring music programs in schools across the US.

Items up for grabs include a harmonica signed by Alice Cooper (which has already attracted bids of $250), signed photos of Aerosmith and Chris Cornell ($300), and a guitar personally autographed by Ryan Adams ($1500). Signed clothing is also big on the agenda, with a jacket from Snoop Dogg, a vest from Iggy Pop, and sneakers from Amy Winehouse.

Signed guitars are also available as part of the Private Sessions Charity Auction, with all proceeds to benefit the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation. Avril Lavigne, the Goo Goo Dolls, Meat Loaf, the Barenaked Ladies, and Toby Keith are among the stars to sign both an acoustic guitar and an electric guitar for the auction, which also includes movie clapper boards autographed by Queen Latifah, Michael Douglas, and Anthony Hopkins.

But if these items whet your appetite, you have to be quick. The auction ends on December 12.

For those people celebrating Christmas in Australia this year, the Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia is auctioning Christmas decorations signed by various celebrities. Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, The Rock, Delta Goodrem, Missy Higgins, and rugby league stars Matthew Johns and Benji Marshall have all put their names on baubles to raise money for sick children in the country.

An auction is also being held by Russell Simmons’ Diamond Empowerment Fund, to raise money for education programs in African countries where diamonds are a natural resource. A variety of fine diamond pieces are up for sale at www.ebay.com/diamondsgive, including an exquisite diamond-encrusted Ohm watch from the Simmons Jewelry Company. The opportunity to take part in exclusive photo shoots with celebrities such as Petra Nemcova, Naomi Campbell, LL Cool J, and Cedric The Entertainer are also up for grabs in the auction.

Actress and environmental activist Daryl Hannah is also doing her bit to ease the shopping blues this year, and has launched a brand new online store. www.dhlovelife.com offers goods picked with serious consideration of their environmental, social, and animal welfare impact. And if special holiday items such as an organic peace wreath and 100% recycled cards do not excite you, the store also offers compost buckets, surfboards and guitars made from hemp, bamboo snowboards, organic dog treats, and even a solar powered boat. The actress will also sell her personal bio diesel car and home fueling system on the site on December 20.

And finally a little news from the recent Lightspeed Fine Art Celebrity Charity Auction, held in Lake Forest, California, on the weekend of December 1 and 2. Lightspeed specializes in artworks relating to science fiction, and their eighth annual auction attracted guests from shows such as Stargate, Voyager, and Battlestar Galactica.

A surprise guest at the auction was Leonard Nimoy, better known as Mr Spock from Star Trek. Nimoy, who is reputed to have a huge personal collection of Star Trek memorabilia, donated several items to the auction signed by himself and William Shatner, including a plaque awarded from NASA for “inspiring a generation of scientists and explorers”.

Nimoy’s contributions made over $14,000 of the total $40,000 raised during the auction, with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and the Nimoy Foundation, an initiative that gives grants to artists-in-residence programs in museums and galleries around the US.

In the words of Mr Spock – “live long and prosper”.

Russell Simmons and Lil' Kim Support Lisa Lopes Orphanage

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 13:46:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

The Lisa Lopes Foundation is celebrating the grand opening of the Lisa Lopes Rural School and Orphanage with its Celebrity Auction and Fund-raiser this Saturday, August 18. The event will take place at The 40/40 Club in New York, where guests can mingle with Russell Simmons, Lil’ Kim, Flava Flav, JD Williams, Patti LaBelle and more while raising funds for the Lisa Lopes Orphanage in Honduras.

The orphanage provides a healthy home, dental clinic, and free healthcare for twenty abandoned children, ages 2-15. Free on-site schooling is also available for children in the community. Many of the children living in the orphanage have lost their parents to AIDS and/or have been victims of sexual and physical abuse.

Honduras is the poorest country in the Americas, and was devastated by Hurricane Mitch in 1998, after which the number of orphans in Honduras increased considerably. Reputable orphanages and various professionally operated children’s homes are essential to ensuring stability throughout their society.

The Lisa Lopes Foundation (LLF) was developed in 2003 by Lisa’s mother, Wanda Lopes-Colemon, brother Ronald Lopes and family friend Anashay Murphy. The Foundation was inspired by Lisa’s dream of building a children’s home on some land she purchased in Honduras. Shortly after revealing her plans to her family, Lisa passed away in an auto accident in Honduras. The family established the Lisa Lopes Foundation to bring her dream to fruition. Four years later they opened Lisa’s Hogar De Amor (Home of Love), a 10,000 sq. ft. orphanage. The LLF also provides teen programs in Georgia.

For more information on attending the event, visit the Lisa Lopes Foundation’s website.

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